Deepest Significance

Darren Schmidt is an emerging composer from Baltimore, MD and a recent graduate of Towson University. The music he loves most is the kind that meets people where they are. Schmidt maintains his music's success stems from the fusion of music and emotion -a powerful synergy. In his first piece for band, "Lux In Tenebris Lucet" (Light Shines In the Darkness), Schmidt drew from his own struggle with depression, composing deeply cathartic music strait from the heart. Seeing that several of his friends in the band also had experience with battling mental illness, it was a special privilege for him to be able to conduct the Towson University Symphonic Band at the premiere. For a recent commission by The Maryland State Boychoir, Schmidt dedicated his setting of "Set Me as a Seal" to the memory of fellow choir member, Maxwell Landbeck, who died just days before his 21st birthday. The final words "love is strong as death" take on a new meaning as Schmidt reflects on the loss of his friend who without fail brought joy and laughter -and the occasional headache- to everyone he met. Fortunately, not all of Schmidt's work is so grim; his latest music includes two pieces for Quorus, a chamber mens ensemble in which he sings. "A Christmas Carol" and "St. Joseph" will be premiered on December 17th, 4pm at St. Joseph Parish in Cockeysville as part of Quorus' residency there.

In addition to composing, Schmidt is an active performer of Barbershop music with his quartet Pratt Street Power and chorus Parkside Harmony. He also currently plays F Horn for the Hunt Valley Wind Ensemble and Maryland Military Band, and is a member of ASCAP and ACDA.​